Lansing – Last week, the Michigan Fitness Association (MFA) hosted its annual conference. During the event, MFA President Bryan Reif presented the Health and Wellness Impact Award to Cristi Johnson, owner of SkellaFit Personal Training in Alpena.
This award celebrates programs that improve health and well-being, especially in underserved communities. The MFA evaluated various initiatives based on criteria like innovation and community impact. After careful consideration, they selected the top five, which were then voted on by industry professionals like gym owners and personal trainers.
Reif highlighted a recent incident that stirred the Alpena community—a kidnapping attempt. This event motivated Johnson to provide free self-defense classes for children, teens, and the Hope Shores Alliance, a local organization that supports survivors of sexual assault. “We’ve been honored to work with SkellaFit,” said Tressa Snider, Advocacy Services Manager at Hope Shores. “Their efforts align closely with our mission to empower survivors.”
Johnson emphasized the importance of self-defense training for everyone. “It’s crucial that people know how capable they are in protecting themselves. Instead of complex combat techniques, we focus on listening to one’s instincts and using strategies to create space from an attacker.” Her approach is designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities, making it easier for participants to gain confidence and skills.
In addition to personal training, SkellaFit will soon offer self-defense courses for team building in local businesses, starting in early 2026. This initiative aims to foster safety and awareness within professional settings, further extending the impact of their mission.
Data from recent surveys show that community-based self-defense training is on the rise, reflecting a growing awareness of personal safety. As more individuals seek empowerment through these programs, the significance of local initiatives like SkellaFit’s cannot be understated.
For more details on the benefits of community fitness initiatives, check out sources like the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/). They provide valuable insights into how such programs enhance overall health outcomes.
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